English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
On cue
Meaning
- "On cue" means to appear, happen or be ready at the expected time or moment. It's used when something happens exactly as planned or predicted.
Usage
- The concert started on cue, with the orchestra perfectly synchronized with the conductor.
- She was always on cue for her daily yoga practice, never missing a session.
- The project was completed on time and on cue, thanks to the team's hard work and dedication.
- I had my doubts about his ability to perform on stage, but he proved me wrong when he nailed every song on cue.
- When the power went out during the movie, the projector automatically switched to backup mode, ensuring the show went on as planned on cue.
Roots and History
The phrase "on cue" comes from the English word "cue," which originally meant a sign or indication of something to be done. In Elizabethan times, it was used in plays to indicate when an actor should enter the stage. Over time, the meaning expanded to include any situation where something happens at the expected time or moment.
Synonyms in English
- Exactly as planned/predicted
- Timely
- Promptly
- On schedule
- At the right time
Synonyms in other languages
- Esperado en español (expected in Spanish)
- Schönzeitlich in Deutsch (on schedule in German)
- Avec du retard dans français (late in French)
- 順利ですか？ in Japanese (is it going well?)
- أوائنية محبينة الشقافة in Arabic (people who are always ready on time)